Telehandlers and rough-terrain forklifts move material fast and high. Here is how to prevent tip-overs and struck-by incidents.
In this article
- Forklifts and telehandlers cause serious accidents
- Only trained operators
- Daily inspection
- Read the load chart
- Check the ground
- Keep people clear
- Use approved attachments only
- Seat belts always
- Watch for power lines
- Document everything
- Plan material deliveries
- Rented machines
- A toolbox talk example
- Frequently asked questions
- Frequently asked questions
Forklifts and telehandlers cause serious accidents
Rough-terrain forklifts and telehandlers move material across uneven ground, lift loads high and work around people. Tip-overs, falling loads and struck-by incidents are common. Proper training and site planning prevent most of them.
Only trained operators
In construction, OSHA's rule for rough-terrain forklifts (29 CFR 1926.602(d)) points to the operator training requirements of 29 CFR 1910.178(l): operators must be trained and evaluated before driving. Certification should cover the specific type of machine used on site.
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Daily inspection
Check tires, hydraulics, forks, brakes, lights and alarms before each shift. A short checklist on the machine makes inspection routine.
Read the load chart
A telehandler's capacity changes with boom angle and extension. Operators must use the load chart for every lift. Overextending is a leading cause of tip-overs.
Check the ground
Soft soil, slopes and holes cause tip-overs. Plan travel routes and setup areas before the machine arrives.
Keep people clear
Mark exclusion zones, use spotters when visibility is limited and never let anyone stand under a raised load.
Use approved attachments only
Using a telehandler as a crane or lifting people requires approved attachments and procedures from the manufacturer.
Seat belts always
In a tip-over, staying in the seat with the belt on saves lives. Make seat belts mandatory.
Watch for power lines
Booms near overhead lines can be deadly. Keep required clearances and plan lifts around lines.
Document everything
Keep operator certifications, inspection checklists and site plans on file.
Plan material deliveries
Most forklift work happens when trucks arrive. Plan where deliveries are unloaded, keep the area clear of foot traffic and assign one person to guide the operator. A few minutes of planning prevents rushed lifts.
Rented machines
When renting, ask for the operator manual and load chart, and do a full inspection on arrival. Make sure your operators are trained on that model.
A toolbox talk example
"The telehandler is moving trusses today. Stay out of the marked zone, never walk under a load and make eye contact with the operator before crossing."
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Frequently asked questions
Do telehandler operators need certification?
Yes. Operators must be trained and evaluated before operating, following OSHA's powered industrial truck training requirements, and on the specific type of machine they use.